What is the main purpose of the Fender Acoustasonic 40?

It is designed as a portable amplification solution for acoustic-electric guitars and vocals in small venues or practice settings.

What is a 'whizzer' cone?

A whizzer cone is a small, additional cone attached to the speaker voice coil that helps reproduce high frequencies more effectively than a standard single-cone speaker.

Can I plug a microphone into the Acoustasonic 40?

Yes, it features an XLR input on the front panel specifically for microphones, alongside a standard 1/4" instrument jack.

Does the amplifier have built-in effects?

The Acoustasonic 40 includes a built-in digital reverb, which allows users to add depth and ambience to their instrument or vocal sound.

Can this amp be used with a PA system?

Yes, it works effectively as an onstage monitor, allowing performers to hear themselves clearly while the main sound is handled by a larger PA.

Is the Acoustasonic 40 suitable for classical guitars?

Yes, it can be used with acoustic-electric classical guitars, such as the Yamaha CG142S, to provide clean, transparent volume.

What is the power output of this model?

The Fender Acoustasonic 40 provides 40 watts of power, which is sufficient for home practice and small performance spaces.

How many speakers are inside the Acoustasonic 40?

It contains a single 6-inch speaker designed for high-frequency clarity via its unique whizzer cone design.

Is this amplifier heavy?

No, it is designed to be a lightweight and portable solution for gigging musicians who need to transport gear easily.

Can I use it with a semi-acoustic guitar?

Yes, it is compatible with semi-acoustic guitars like the Tanglewood Northstar Pro or Hartwood Revival models for a clean acoustic tone.

Does it support two instruments at once?

While it has two inputs, one is 1/4" and the other is XLR; it is primarily intended for one guitar and one microphone, though an adapter could allow a second instrument.

What is the typical price for the Acoustasonic 40?

The amplifier typically retails in the range of £259, making it an accessible option for students and intermediate performers.

Gear article

Fender Acoustasonic 40 Acoustic Guitar Amplifier

The Fender Acoustasonic 40 is a compact, portable amplifier specifically designed for acoustic-electric guitarists and singer-songwriters. It features a unique 6-inch speaker with a whizzer cone and dual-channel inputs for simultaneous instrument and microphone use.

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Overview

The Fender Acoustasonic 40 is engineered to provide a simple yet effective amplification solution for acoustic instruments. Built by Fender, it focuses on portability and clarity, making it a staple for performers who require a reliable small-scale PA system or a personal monitor. Its design prioritises the natural reproduction of acoustic tones rather than the saturated overdrive typical of electric guitar amplifiers.

Design and Features

The core of the Acoustasonic 40's audio reproduction is its 6-inch speaker, which utilizes a 'whizzer' cone. This specialized design element is intended to broaden the high-frequency response, ensuring that the sparkle and chime of acoustic strings are preserved.

The front panel includes two channels. One provides a standard 1/4" input for acoustic-electric guitars, while the other features an XLR input, allowing a microphone to be connected. This dual-input configuration makes it an all-in-one solution for solo vocalists. Additionally, the amplifier includes a built-in reverb effect to add spatial depth to the performance.

Sound Character

Unlike standard guitar amps, the Acoustasonic 40 is tuned for transparency. The whizzer cone assists in delivering a detailed high-end that avoids the 'boxy' sound often associated with small speakers. The integrated reverb provides an ambient wash that can soften the dry signal of piezo pickups, resulting in a more natural, resonant tone suitable for intimate venues.

Usage and Connectivity

Beyond its role as a primary amplifier for small rooms, the Acoustasonic 40 is frequently used as an onstage monitor. When a performer is playing a larger venue with a house PA system, the amp can be positioned to provide the musician with a clear reference of their own playing and singing. It is compatible with a wide range of acoustic instruments, including dreadnoughts like the Hartwood Artiste or semi-acoustic models like the Tanglewood Northstar Pro.

Target Audience

This amplifier is primarily suited for:

Solo performers who need to amplify both a guitar and a vocal microphone.
Acoustic-electric guitarists requiring a lightweight practice amp for home use.
Musicians using steel-string or classical guitars, such as the Yamaha CG142S, who need clean amplification.
Performers needing a compact monitoring solution for larger stage setups.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the main purpose of the Fender Acoustasonic 40?: It is designed as a portable amplification solution for acoustic-electric guitars and vocals in small venues or practice settings.
What is a 'whizzer' cone?: A whizzer cone is a small, additional cone attached to the speaker voice coil that helps reproduce high frequencies more effectively than a standard single-cone speaker.
Can I plug a microphone into the Acoustasonic 40?: Yes, it features an XLR input on the front panel specifically for microphones, alongside a standard 1/4" instrument jack.
Does the amplifier have built-in effects?: The Acoustasonic 40 includes a built-in digital reverb, which allows users to add depth and ambience to their instrument or vocal sound.
Can this amp be used with a PA system?: Yes, it works effectively as an onstage monitor, allowing performers to hear themselves clearly while the main sound is handled by a larger PA.
Is the Acoustasonic 40 suitable for classical guitars?: Yes, it can be used with acoustic-electric classical guitars, such as the Yamaha CG142S, to provide clean, transparent volume.
What is the power output of this model?: The Fender Acoustasonic 40 provides 40 watts of power, which is sufficient for home practice and small performance spaces.
How many speakers are inside the Acoustasonic 40?: It contains a single 6-inch speaker designed for high-frequency clarity via its unique whizzer cone design.
Is this amplifier heavy?: No, it is designed to be a lightweight and portable solution for gigging musicians who need to transport gear easily.
Can I use it with a semi-acoustic guitar?: Yes, it is compatible with semi-acoustic guitars like the Tanglewood Northstar Pro or Hartwood Revival models for a clean acoustic tone.
Does it support two instruments at once?: While it has two inputs, one is 1/4" and the other is XLR; it is primarily intended for one guitar and one microphone, though an adapter could allow a second instrument.
What is the typical price for the Acoustasonic 40?: The amplifier typically retails in the range of £259, making it an accessible option for students and intermediate performers.